APEC Summit in Gyeongju: Navigating Asia-Pacific's Economic Inflection Point

South Korean President Lee Jae Myung led a pivotal Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) leaders' summit, emphasizing the importance of collaboration in the face of global economic changes. Notable attendees included Chinese President Xi Jinping and U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, underlining APEC's significance in global trade and economic discussions.

In a pivotal gathering, South Korean President Lee Jae Myung chaired the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit in Gyeongju, marking a critical juncture in the region's economic journey. As the global economic order rapidly shifts, leaders from the 21-member forum convened to address and navigate these ongoing changes.

The summit was graced by prominent figures, including Chinese President Xi Jinping and U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent. This year's meeting coincided with a high-stakes discussion between Xi and U.S. President Donald Trump, aimed at easing the prolonged trade tensions between their countries, underscoring APEC's role in facilitating dialogue.

President Lee highlighted the imperativeness of cooperation, stating, 'We cannot always be on the same side, but we must work together to achieve common prosperity.' He addressed the pressing need for APEC members to unite as trade and investment face significant challenges due to the dramatic shifts in the free trade order.

(With inputs from agencies.)